Studies have shown that high quality expanded learning programs link to student achievement. The tools and research summaries here outline some of the most recent and compelling research on the impact of expanded learning on student achievement, attendance and classroom behavior.

Afterschool research by Deborah Vandell demonstrates that more consistent time spent in afterschool activities during the elementary school years is linked to narrowing the gap in math achievement, reduced school absences and improved behavioral outcomes for students.

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee explains how expanded learning opportunities across the state are improving educational outcomes of elementary through high school students. Governor Chafee provides the data to support the positive impact that these afterschool and summer learning programs have on students who participate.

Wisconsin State Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Evers, demonstrates the importance of expanded learning opportunities. Superintendent Evers provides data to support the myriad benefits of participation in high-quality 21st Century Community Learning Centers, including building important school-community partnerships.

With the growing number of english language learners in our schools, we must discover ways to help them learn. Dr. Lisa Pray takes a close look at these issues and explains how afterschool and summer can help close the achievement gap.

Meaningful parent engagement can be one of the biggest challenges school and community-based educators face. This report by Loras Osterhaus (Clinton Community Schools) addresses effective strategies for engaging parents and other adult caregivers.

Combining the efforts of afterschool providers and institutions of higher education creates a wealth of opportunities for children and communities. This report by Elaine M. Johannes (Kansas Statue University), Cathy Mullins (Shawnee State University) and Marcia J. Dvorak (Kansas Enrichment Network) discusses the opportunities that arise when universities, afterschool and summer learning programs work together.

When a 21st Century Program is done right, it is often the very best thing in a child’s life. This study by Joe Davis (Florida Afterschool Network), Lani Lingo (Florida Department of Education) and Shelah Woodruff (Florida Department of Education) discusses critical components for a successful 21st Century Community Learning Center.

This research summary by Joseph Durlak (Loyola University Chicago) and Roger Weissberg (University of Illinois at Chicago) underscores the link between high quality programs and student achievement. Their analysis of more than 60 studies of afterschool programs showed that certain high quality afterschool programs are associated with: